EAST: Off the Beaten Path
Explore less ventured areas during East Austin Studio Tour 2019
Words by Sam Lauron Photo of Starla Michelle Fine Art
East Austin Studio Tour (better known as EAST) is one of Austin’s favorite events each fall, drawing in large crowds of art enthusiasts and supporters each weekend. For a chance to step away from the crowds and have a more intimate experience, consider visiting these lesser-known stops that are off the beaten path.
Starla Michelle Fine Art
Fine artist Starla Halfmann is known for her vibrant paintings inspired by animals and nature. The local artist has even received national recognition, with her work being featured in Anthropologie. For EAST, she will be joining Austin Secret Kitchen for a fun collaboration during both weekends. Visit their space to watch Starla do a live painting, as well as shop from her collection of large and small paintings, pillows, and prints.
6113 Duchess Dr. | starlamichelle.com
HIGH-CRAFT Art Market
Going into its fourth year, the HIGH-CRAFT Art Market is a can’t-miss opportunity to pick up a few unique, locally-crafted goods, just in time for the holidays. Hosted by Dug Fresh Productions, the mission of the market is to combine fine art with fine craft by featuring a mix of contemporary artists and makers. The family-friendly event is located in the University Hills neighborhood and offers a quiet respite from crowds in the major tourist areas.
7210 Fred Morse Dr. | dugfreshaustin.com
Pump Project
Head out east of 183 to see the work of Pump Project artists at Mosaic Sound Collective. Five individual artists from Pump Project will be set up, including painters Aria Brownwell, Aubree Dale, and Beth Shapiro, and mixed media artists Kirsten Lofgren and Kristin Freeman. There will also be a collaborative group exhibition from Pump Project artists featuring both traditional and experimental art.
6400 FM 969 | pumpproject.org
Austin Public Library
Each year, Big Medium partners with all of Austin’s public libraries within the tour boundaries to feature exhibitions during both weekends. These stops offer tour-goers a chance to explore the work of local artists while supporting the city’s libraries. A couple must-see exhibitions are the Creative Arts Society at Carver Branch, which will feature the work of 20 various artists, and the live chalk art demonstration that will be taking place at the St. John Branch.
Various locations
ELRAY
This studio may be the last stop on the tour, but it’s certainly worth venturing across the river to explore. Metal sculptor and interior designer, Elray Gomez, will use his Riverside apartment to showcase his new furniture collection designed with steel, concrete, and glass, allowing the materials to speak for themselves while also bringing functionality to art.
1633 Royal Crest Dr. Bldg A-6, #1137 | elray.co
